Sweet Chili Chicken is a wonderful mix of crispy, tender chicken pieces coated in a sticky, sweet, and just a little spicy sauce. The sauce usually has a nice balance of sweetness from sugar or honey and a gentle kick from chili flakes or fresh chili peppers, creating a flavor that’s really fun and comforting at the same time.
I love making Sweet Chili Chicken because it’s not only delicious but also super easy to whip up on busy nights. I usually cook the chicken until it’s golden and crispy, then toss it all in the luscious sauce so every bite is full of flavor. A little tip I have is to adjust the chili level to your liking—whether you like it mild or want a bit more heat, you can tweak it easily!
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this dish is with a side of steamed rice and some fresh veggies like crisp cucumber or crunchy carrots. It’s a perfect combo of textures and flavors that always gets everyone asking for seconds. Sweet Chili Chicken definitely feels like a little treat that’s quick enough to enjoy any day of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I usually use boneless, skinless chicken breast for a lean option, but thighs give a juicier, more tender result. Both work great—choose what you prefer or have on hand.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is the star for flavor. You can find it pre-made in most stores. If unavailable, mix honey, garlic, chili flakes, and a little vinegar as a simple homemade sauce.
Soy Sauce: It adds depth and saltiness. Low-sodium soy sauce works well if you want less salt. For gluten-free, tamari is a good substitute.
Vinegar: Rice vinegar offers a mild tang. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or apple cider vinegar works fine but use a little less to avoid overpowering the dish.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both add sweetness that balances the spice. Honey gives a floral note, while brown sugar adds a bit of molasses flavor. Use your favorite or what’s easiest.
Fresh Chili: This controls heat. Feel free to skip or add more depending on your spice tolerance. Red chili flakes can also be swapped in for fresh chili.
Cilantro: Adds freshness as a garnish. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a milder and accessible alternative.
How Do I Get the Chicken Crispy and Well-Coated with Sauce?
Crispy chicken means cooking it in hot oil without crowding the pan to avoid steaming. Use medium-high heat and cook the pieces in batches if needed.
- Heat oil until shimmering but not smoking.
- Place chicken pieces in a single layer, avoid stirring too soon.
- Once golden on one side, flip and cook until done inside.
- Remove chicken, then make the sauce in the same pan to keep the flavor from browned bits.
- Add chicken back and toss to coat it well in the thickened sauce—this makes it sticky and flavorful.
Doing these steps helps create that perfect balance of crispy, tender chicken with a rich, sticky sweet chili coating.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok – Great for cooking chicken evenly and tossing it in the sauce without spills.
- Sharp knife – Helps you cut chicken and chili peppers into even, bite-sized pieces quickly.
- Cutting board – Keeps your prep organized and safe.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Perfect for stirring the sauce gently without scratching your pan.
- Measuring spoons and cups – Makes sure your sauce has the right balance of flavors every time.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version; they soak up the sweet chili sauce nicely.
- Add sliced bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
- Stir in crushed peanuts or cashews at the end for a nutty texture contrast.
- Mix in a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving for a bright, tangy twist.
How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated (optional)
- 1 small red chili, finely chopped (adjust for spice)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a tasty weeknight dinner that’s ready in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Make the Sauce:
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and chopped red chili for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then stir in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, and honey or brown sugar. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, so it thickens slightly.
3. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it well to coat every piece with the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors come together and the sauce get sticky. Serve the sweet chili chicken hot over cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and extra chopped red chili if you like a little more heat.
Enjoy your delicious Sweet Chili Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture for better browning.
How Can I Make This Dish Less Spicy?
Simply reduce or omit the fresh red chili and chili flakes. You can also balance the heat by adding a bit more honey or brown sugar to the sauce.
Can I Prepare Sweet Chili Chicken Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken with sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken?
It’s perfect served over steamed white rice to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also pair it with steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
